Stuck at Chicago Midway International Airport with a rumbling stomach? Navigating any airport can be a stressful experience, especially when hunger strikes. Fortunately, Chicago Midway (MDW) offers a diverse array of dining options to satisfy every craving, from quick snacks to satisfying sit-down meals. This comprehensive guide acts as your personal Chicago Midway Airport food map, leading you to the best culinary destinations within the airport walls. Forget aimless wandering and settle into enjoying a tasty start or end to your journey.
This guide aims to present a handy view of all the food options available in the airport to make sure you have a pleasant dining experience while in transit.
Understanding the Midway Airport Layout
Before diving into the specifics of where to find the best eats, let’s briefly touch on the layout of Chicago Midway International Airport. The airport is primarily divided into three concourses: A, B, and C. Understanding which concourse your gate is located in is crucial because not all restaurants are accessible from every area.
Some restaurants are strategically located before the security checkpoints, providing convenient options for travelers meeting friends or family or those who have arrived unusually early for their flights. However, the vast majority of dining establishments are situated after security, within the individual concourses. This means you’ll need to clear security before accessing these options. Airport maps are readily available both physically, at information kiosks throughout the airport, and digitally, on the airport’s website or through various travel apps. Familiarizing yourself with these maps will save you valuable time and prevent you from wandering aimlessly in search of a decent meal.
Chicago Midway Airport Food Map: A Culinary Exploration
Now, let’s embark on a culinary tour of Chicago Midway, exploring the diverse dining options within each concourse. Remember that airport offerings can change, so check the airport website for the latest updates.
Concourse A: A Bite Before Your Flight
Concourse A offers a solid selection of eateries for those flying on Southwest Airlines and seeking a quick and easy bite.
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop: (American) Located near gate A4. Price Range: $. Potbelly’s offers toasted sandwiches, salads, and soups. Known for its signature hot peppers and friendly service, it’s a popular spot for a quick lunch or dinner. Features vegetarian options.
- Reilly’s Daughter Irish Pub: (Irish/American) Situated near gate A7. Price Range: $$. If you’re in the mood for pub fare and a refreshing beverage, Reilly’s Daughter is a great option. This offers classic pub dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips, along with a wide selection of beers and spirits.
- Auntie Anne’s: (Snacks) Found near gate A12. Price Range: $. Known worldwide for its soft pretzels, Auntie Anne’s is perfect for a quick snack or a sweet treat. Grab a classic pretzel, a pretzel dog, or a refreshing lemonade. This location is great for families.
- Starbucks: (Coffee/Snacks) Positioned by gate A10. Price Range: $. The ubiquitous coffee giant serves up all the usual Starbucks favorites, from lattes and cappuccinos to pastries and sandwiches. A reliable spot for a caffeine fix and a quick bite.
Concourse B: Variety is the Spice of Midway
Concourse B arguably boasts the most diverse range of dining options, catering to various tastes and preferences.
- Billy Goat Tavern & Grill: (American) Found near gate B10. Price Range: $$. A Chicago institution, Billy Goat Tavern is famous for its “cheezborger, cheezborger, no fries, chips, no Pepsi, Coke” routine and its simple, delicious burgers. A true taste of Chicago.
- DeColores: (Mexican) Located near gate B5. Price Range: $$. If you’re craving south-of-the-border flavors, DeColores offers a variety of Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. They also serve breakfast options.
- Dunkin’: (Coffee/Bakery) Situated close to gate B20. Price Range: $. Dunkin’ is a classic and convenient option for a quick coffee, donut, or breakfast sandwich before your flight.
- McDonald’s: (Fast Food) Found near gate B14. Price Range: $. When you are on a hurry, the world-renowned fast food chain is the right solution to your hunger.
- Oak Street Beach Bar: (American) Located near gate B8. Price Range: $$. Serving up casual American favorites and offering a full bar, Oak Street Beach Bar is a relaxed spot to unwind before your flight.
- Hudson News/Snacks: (Convenience) Several locations. Price Range: $. For quick snacks, drinks, and travel essentials.
Concourse C: Comfort Food and Convenient Bites
Concourse C focuses on providing travelers with satisfying and convenient dining options.
- Gold Coast Dogs: (American) Found near gate C19. Price Range: $. Serving up Chicago-style hot dogs and other classic American fare, Gold Coast Dogs is a perfect place to experience the city’s unique hot dog culture. A must-try for first-time visitors.
- Jack Chi: (Asian Fusion) Located near gate C5. Price Range: $$. For people who prefer asian food, this restaurant provides a combination of several dishes from that continent.
- Harvest & Grounds: (Coffee/Bakery/Sandwiches) Close to gate C3. Price Range: $. A great spot for a quick coffee, pastry, or sandwich, Harvest & Grounds offers fresh and flavorful options.
Dining Options Before Security
Don’t forget about the options available before you pass through security. These are ideal for meeting someone arriving, or if you happen to have plenty of time before your flight and want to relax outside the secured area.
- McDonald’s: (Fast Food) Offers quick and familiar fast food options. Great for travelers on a budget or with limited time.
Top Picks & Recommendations for Midway Dining
Navigating the Midway food scene can be overwhelming with so many choices. Here are some recommendations to help you narrow down your options:
- Best Quick Bite: Auntie Anne’s (Concourse A). You can grab a pretzel and be at your gate in minutes. Perfect for a fast snack.
- Best Sit-Down Meal: Billy Goat Tavern & Grill (Concourse B). Take some time to taste the flavor of Chicago with a real cheeseburger.
- Best Value: Potbelly Sandwich Shop (Concourse A). Good quality sandwiches at a reasonable price.
- Best Local Flavor: Gold Coast Dogs (Concourse C) or Billy Goat Tavern & Grill (Concourse B). You can’t leave Chicago without trying a Chicago-style hot dog or a Billy Goat Tavern cheeseburger. These are the essence of Chicago food.
- Best for Families: McDonald’s (Multiple Locations). Provides kid-friendly food and familiar options that most children will enjoy.
- Best Coffee: Starbucks (Concourse A) or Dunkin’ (Concourse B). Grab a coffee at these nationwide locations.
Tips for Dining at Midway Airport
To ensure a smooth and satisfying dining experience at Chicago Midway, keep these tips in mind:
- Time Management: Always allow ample time for dining, especially during peak travel periods. Security lines can be unpredictable, and restaurants can get crowded.
- Mobile Ordering: Check if any restaurants offer mobile ordering through their apps or third-party services. This can save you time and allow you to skip the line.
- Dietary Restrictions: Review menus online in advance or ask restaurant staff about vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options.
- Budgeting: Be aware that airport prices can be higher than those outside the airport. Factor this into your budget and consider packing snacks to supplement your meals.
- Check Hours of Operation: Not all restaurants operate on the same schedule. Check the airport’s official website or individual restaurant websites for the most up-to-date hours of operation. This prevents any disappointments.
- Utilizing Airport Wi-Fi: Take advantage of the free airport Wi-Fi to browse menus, read reviews, and compare prices before making your dining decision.
Beyond the Food Map: Other Dining Resources
In addition to this guide, several other resources can help you navigate the dining scene at Midway Airport:
- Airport Websites and Apps: The official Chicago Department of Aviation website and various travel apps provide comprehensive listings of airport restaurants, including locations, hours, and contact information.
- Online Reviews: Check websites like Yelp and Google Reviews for traveler feedback on specific restaurants. This can provide valuable insights into the quality of food, service, and overall dining experience.
- Airport Staff: Don’t hesitate to ask airport staff for recommendations. They can often provide insider tips and suggest hidden gems.
Conclusion
Having a clear picture of the food choices is essential for making the most of your time at Chicago Midway International Airport. By using this “food map” to guide you, you can confidently navigate the diverse dining options and find the perfect meal to suit your needs and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a hearty meal, or a taste of Chicago’s local flavor, Midway has something to satisfy every palate. Remember to plan ahead, check hours, and explore the various resources available to you. Enjoy your meal and safe travels!
